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A few years ago, losing your car keys was not a big deal. You could take your spare to an a key cutter and buy an additional one for $10 or less.

However, the process has become more complicated and costly. Learn more about the various types of keys for cars and what they'll cost you to replace them.

Basic Key Fob

A key fob is both a remote and key in one. It's a small plastic device that contains one or more buttons that you can push to unlock the doors and trunk, open the hatchback, open the windows and maybe even start the car. The key fob has an electronic chip in it that communicates with your car's onboard systems to control functions like the starter.

Key fobs for basic use are typically constructed from plastic that is standard, and utilize a standard lock and key mechanism. They are similar to the ones found on old Pontiacs as well as Saturns. A basic key fob could cost between $50 and $100, but the actual cost is when you need to replace a damaged or lost one.

You'll likely need to visit the dealer if the car is newer than five years. A lot of newer vehicles require special equipment to code and program new keys. A locksmith or key shop is usually able to do this for less.

The cost of your fob can depend on the type you have. Older cars use mechanical key fobs, while most recent models utilize transponder keys. Both of these types are able to have a range of features, ranging from keyless entry that locks and unlocks the vehicle instantly to rolling codes that change regularly to prevent thieves from taking and stealing your car's key fob data.

It's possible to purchase an aftermarket key fob online for less than the price you'd pay at a dealership, but these may not be compatible with your vehicle. Some manufacturers, including Audi and Subaru have security chips in their key fobs that prevent them from working with third-party devices. Some dealers will program an aftermarket fob if you bring it in however there's a high chance it won't continue to function.

Read the owner's manual for your model or search the manufacturer's website for more information on programming your specific model's key fob. Try to do this yourself first before paying for a locksmith or going to the dealer. You can also look into your car's warranty and auto insurance policy to see whether they will cover the cost of replacing a key fob.

Transponder Key

Transponder keys are utilized in the majority of newer automobiles. These keys have a chip embedded into the head that transmits a message to the vehicle after it is placed in the ignition cylinder. This signal is used for unlocking the car and for starting the engine. This key is more secure than a conventional flat metal key due to the transponder chip blocks a car from starting without the correct signal. This technology was created to stop car theft since it is almost impossible to duplicate these keys without the right equipment.

Many cars are also equipped with immobilizers that prevent the vehicle from starting when they are operated with a key that is not transponder. Car thieves have come up with ways to steal cars equipped with transponder key systems.

A locksmith is usually able to help you replace the damaged or lost transponder key. They will need the information about your vehicle, such as the VIN number and model. They will then either program your existing key to the car's computer system or cut an entirely new one. This procedure is more expensive than cutting a key from a dealership and program a new key.

Some automotive stores, like AutoZone and Walmart can also be able to cut and copy a transponder key, but they might not be in a position to reprogram the chip in the key. It is best to call an experienced and reputable locksmith firm to be sure that a professional is able to handle the task.

Before the advent of this technology it was fairly simple to create duplicate keys for cars and then hot wire a vehicle. This technique was used to steal cars and allowed criminals to drive away with stolen vehicles. The introduction of the transponder key has greatly reduced this activity but it's not completely eliminated.

If you require a new transponder key or you have lost yours, the best solution is to contact an expert and have them create it for you. It's more expensive than a standard key, however it's a safer and more secure alternative to ensure that someone else will not be able to start your car.

Keyless Entry System

Car key fobs are now an everyday feature in cars as people are seeking convenience, safety and security. These transmitters are able to open doors, activate the panic alarm, unlock the trunk, or even start the engine without a physical key. But they can also endure quite a beating from being tossed around, and are more likely to get lost or stolen than traditional keys. It's costly to replace them, and you might need to program your new key to pair it with your vehicle.

A basic key fob costs around ten dollars to get cut at the hardware store, however the latest smart keys aren't cheap when you want to purchase them and have them programmed. You should expect to pay between $200 and $500 for a replacement key fob. This includes the cost of having it cut and programmed for your vehicle.

Some advanced car key systems let you make use of your smartphone as a key. You can lock or unlock your emergency car key replacement by using an app that you have installed on your smartphone. You can also turn on and off your lights, activate your parking break, and do other tasks depending on how close you are to the vehicle. These are great for people who live in urban areas, or even parents who are concerned about your children leaving the car unsupervised.

Certain of these systems can be expensive, but they're also more secure than a standard emergency car key replacement key as they locate you and prevent you from accidentally locking your car or turning the engine on when you're far away. They can also help you locate your car inside garages that have parking spaces and even alert you if the doors are shut or opened.

These kinds of systems could also be beneficial to businesses, like property managers that oversee vacation rentals or office spaces. These systems allow them to monitor the access rights for guests cleaners, guests, and maintenance workers, while making sure that only those with the right permissions can get in and out of the space.

Dealership

Some people feel they must go to the dealer if their keys are missing. They'll have to show proof of ownership, and occasionally keys must be ordered from the manufacturer which can take a few days. But a dealer will generally complete the task for you faster than a locksmith, and they might have lower prices, as well.

The key fob might need to be programmed to your vehicle. This can be done at the dealer or by consulting your owner's guide. It involves opening and shutting doors, [Redirect Only] as well as turning on and off lights and other electronic devices. It could even require pressing a series of buttons that act as an electronic code. It is usually performed by the driver but it is better to have a technician do it.

The cost can also be dependent on the year, make and type of vehicle. Newer cars have high-tech transponder chips that will need to be paired with the vehicle by a locksmith dealer, and the process can be more costly.

A dealer that sells a specific model of car is more likely to know how to replace the keys for that vehicle. Some of the larger manufacturers, such as Ford, Toyota, Chrysler and Nissan have a wide variety of models and are more acquainted with the keys for the specific models.

Some brands are harder to work with. This includes a few of the older companies that have shut down, or are old enough to have keys that are no longer being produced. These include Scion, Pontiac, Hummer, Oldsmobile, Mercury, Saturn, and Eagle. These keys are usually changed. This is more expensive and complicated than replacing the key.

In general, if you have a spare key it is recommended to duplicate it at an expert instead of obtaining an exchange from the dealer. That way you can avoid having to pay the higher rates for after-hours and weekend hours. If you lose your keys you are assured that the duplicate will function.